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Featured Photo: Southeastern and Blue Ridge Community College team members stand in the resource distribution center in Blue Ridge’s Patton Building on Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by Benjamin Rickert.)
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In a generous display of solidarity, Southeastern Community College (SCC) delivered a van full of warm clothing and blankets to Blue Ridge Community College on December 18, 2025. Spearheaded by SCC President Dr. Christopher English, the donation effort was supported by students, employees, and board members.
Facilities Director Jeff Murphy and Maintenance Technician Josh Wood made the 4.5-hour drive from Columbus County, NC, to deliver the items. Blue Ridge employees welcomed them and helped unload the donations into the Patton Building Flex Lab.
As the bags were opened, students visiting the distribution center immediately began to collect warm items ahead of the harsh winter months. The donations included coats, hats, gloves, socks, blankets, and other warm clothing, ensuring that Blue Ridge students and their families could stay safe and comfortable through the holidays and beyond.
Murphy highlighted the inspiration behind the effort, noting that his coastal community understands the challenges hurricanes can bring.
“When we heard what Western North Carolina was going through, people wanted to give,” Murphy said. “This time of year, I think people are going to need these things.”
Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood, president of Blue Ridge Community College, expressed her heartfelt gratitude.
“We are deeply moved by the generosity shown by Southeastern Community College,” she said. “The thoughtful donation of warm clothing and blankets is not only a gift of physical comfort but also a powerful reminder of the strength of our community college network. On behalf of our students and their families, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Chris English, the Southeastern team, and everyone who contributed to making this delivery possible.”
This act of kindness underscored the deep connections and shared values within North Carolina’s community college system, where collaboration and compassion create meaningful impacts for students and their families.
“With assistance from our sister colleges across the state, we are ensuring that no one in our Blue Ridge community faces the cold alone,” added Benjamin Rickert, Blue Ridge’s communications director. “Our distribution center has been a game-changer for those needing tangible assistance, and we’re grateful to Southeastern Community College and the other colleges who have come to our aid. On some days, the donated items are claimed nearly as fast as we can unload them.”
Throughout the hurricane recovery, students and employees affected by Hurricane Helene can learn more about the distribution center, emergency grants, and other resources at www.blueridge.edu/alert/helene.